By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Lifelong learning isn’t just a catchphrase at Canterbury—it’s a living tradition. Canterbury ElderCollege, a cornerstone of the region’s educational community, invites adults aged 55 and over to rediscover the joy of learning in a friendly, engaging setting.

Founded in 2011 by the late Lloyd Brown-John, ElderCollege has offered a wealth of opportunities for intellectual growth, social connection, and personal enrichment, all guided by passionate volunteers.

Canterbury ElderCollege, a non-profit, aims to give seniors opportunities to learn, meet new people, and explore new interests. Volunteers passionately create, oversee, and teach courses, making the program possible.

“The program is really all about connecting with seniors who are passionate about sharing their expertise with others,” said Catherine Fettes ElderCollege Program Manager. “The program is in high demand…something the community really wants.”

With deep roots in Windsor since 1957, Canterbury offers lifelong learning that enriches lives. These engaging, social, and educational courses for those 55 and older are available in person, online, and hybrid formats—allowing participants to join in whatever way suits them while enjoying the opportunity to connect with others who share their interests.

The organization has thoroughly investigated the interests and needs of the senior community, focusing on their activities leading up to and during retirement. Emily Thompson, Program Coordinator at ElderCollege, highlights that those aged 55 to 64 are particularly susceptible to loneliness and social isolation. “Our programs aim to foster social learning and tackle these issues,” she explains.

Fettes says registration begins September 14th with classes getting underway at the end of the month.

“We are offering a wide variety of courses, from creative classes such as watercolour painting to topics in local history,” said Fettes. “And with flexible options, you can participate in whichever way works best for you!”

Whether you want to learn about the digital world, explore different cultures, discover local community organizations or try a new creative skill, there’s something for everyone! Dive into new adventures every semester, with topics ranging from politics, geography, history, art, food & drink, hobbies, local and world history, armchair travel, health & wellness, nature, agriculture, finance, law, science, technology, and more. ElderCollege’s network spans multiple campuses and retirement residences throughout Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent, with volunteer instructors sharing their expertise in everything from one session workshops to six-week courses.

Some courses offered this semester include: Booze, Boats and Bullets—exploring the history of local prohibition—Lost architecture of Windsor, Lancaster aircraft restoration, the Gordie Howe Bridge and construction timeline, human history of Point Pelee National Park, as well as courses on healthy aging, women in history, the natural world, current affairs and cybersecurity.

There are no deadlines, tests, or exams—just learning for the joy of learning.

ElderCollege runs two semesters per year—Spring and Fall—each offering a wide variety of courses to suit all kinds of interests. This fall ElderCollege registrations opened with over 50 courses. Classes run from September through June, and registration remains open throughout the semester, allowing learners to join at their convenience.

Thompson says that, in addition to morning and afternoon classes, evening classes have been added to accommodate seniors who still work. The organization is also working to offer bilingual options, as well.

Membership is accessible at $15 per year (covering two consecutive semesters), with course fees ranging from $25 to $55, and special package options available. A number of courses are offered free with membership, and a ‘Buffet-Course Fee’ provides access to up to 10 courses for $155.

Shelley Bolger, Executive Director at Canterbury College, says the College is always looking for new ideas to improve and that the program’s future is bright. Many of the courses offered are directly linked to acquiring grants and funding, which allows for new program opportunities.

“I think what really impresses me is how rich the history of the area is…the folks that inspire and have so much to share,” said Jennifer Boyes-Garbin Canterbury College Principal, as well as an instructor. “Windsorites are able to offer and share so much and are inspiring to us all, and this area isn’t celebrated enough. These programs help to bridge that gap.”

The program’s popularity speaks for itself: over 250 members are enrolled, with around 900 course seats registered each semester.

For more information on programs and registration, visit Canterbury ElderCollege’s website www.eldercollege.ca